Marijuana Offenses

Marijuana Charges In Columbus And Central Ohio

Marijuana offenses are the most common drug crimes in Ohio. While there are varying opinions on whether marijuana should be legalized, in Ohio it is currently illegal, and the law is enforced. Even possessing a small amount of marijuana can have a significant impact on your life if you are convicted. In addition to the sentence imposed by the judge, which includes a mandatory driver’s license suspension, a conviction will be a drug-related criminal record that may affect professional licensing, student financial aid, employment opportunities, and more. If you have been charged with a marijuana crime in Columbus or central Ohio and hope to avoid or reduce those consequences, contact a criminal defense attorney with experience successfully defending clients against marijuana charges.

Attorney For Marijuana Crimes In Columbus And Central Ohio

I have practiced criminal defense in Columbus and Central Ohio since 1997. During that time, I have represented many clients charged with marijuana offenses. My experience ranges from minor misdemeanor marijuana possession to felony marijuana trafficking and felony marijuana cultivation. I practice in Franklin County, Delaware County, and other courts throughout central Ohio.

Misdemeanor Marijuana Offenses and Sentences

Possession. If the charge is marijuana possession and the amount of marijuana possessed is less than 100 grams, marijuana possession in Ohio is a minor misdemeanor and does not carry a jail sentence. If the amount is between 100 grams and 199 grams, marijuana possession in Ohio is a fourth degree misdemeanor carrying a jail sentence of up to 30 days and probation up to five years.

Cultivation. If the charge is marijuana cultivation and the amount cultivated is less than 200 grams, the charge is classified as a misdemeanor. For every misdemeanor marijuana conviction, even the minor misdemeanor offense, there is a mandatory driver’s license suspension from six months to five years.

Felony Marijuana Crimes and Punishments

Possession. For marijuana possession, if the amount is between 200 grams and 1 kilogram, marijuana possession in Ohio is a fifth degree felony carrying a prison sentence of up to one year and probation up to five years. If the amount is between 1 kilogram and 5 kilograms, marijuana possession in Ohio is a third degree felony carrying one year to five years in prison. If the amount is between 5 kilograms and 20 kilograms, marijuana possession in Ohio is a third degree felony, and there is a presumption that a prison sentence will be imposed. If the amount is between 20 kilograms and 40 kilograms, marijuana possession in Ohio is a second degree felony carrying a mandatory five to eight years in prison. If the amount is over 40 kilograms, marijuana possession in Ohio is a second degree felony carrying a mandatory eight years in prison. For every felony marijuana possession conviction, there is a mandatory driver’s license suspension from six months to five years.

Cultivation. For marijuana cultivation, if the amount is between 200 grams and one kilogram, marijuana cultivation in Ohio is a fifth degree felony carrying a prison sentence up to one year and probation up to five years. If the amount is between one kilogram and 5 kilograms, marijuana cultivation in Ohio is a third degree felony carrying one year to five years in prison. If the amount is between 5 kilograms and 20 kilograms, marijuana cultivation in Ohio is a third degree felony, and there is a presumption that a prison sentence will be imposed. If the amount is over 20 kilograms, marijuana cultivation in Ohio is a second degree felony carrying two to eight years in prison, and there is a presumption that a prison sentence will be imposed. If the marijuana cultivation occurs within the vicinity of a school, the level of the offense is increased by one degree. For every felony marijuana cultivation conviction, there is a mandatory driver’s license suspension from six months to five years.

Disclaimer: The offense levels and potential sentences for marijuana offenses are somewhat complex. What is presented in this website is an informational summary and is not intended to be a comprehensive reproduction of Ohio drug laws.

Strategies For Defense Of Marijuana Crimes

When I represent a client for marijuana charges, we take a two-part approach. First, we investigate the availability of a diversion program or intervention in lieu of conviction that may lead to the charge being dismissed without a conviction. Second, we obtain the prosecution’s evidence to evaluate the strength of the case, discuss possible defenses, and determine the best course of action. If a diversion program is not an option, the best course of action may be a program, it may be a plea agreement, or it may be a trial. We examine problems with the prosecution’s case, such as physical evidence obtained in violation of Fourth Amendment rights, confessions obtained in violation of Fifth Amendment rights, misidentification, chain of custody issues, constructive possession, inconclusive circumstantial evidence, incorrect analysis, and incorrect measurement. In every case, we seek the best possible outcome for the circumstances.

Representation For Marijuana Offenses In Columbus And Central Ohio

My practice is focused exclusively on criminal defense, and I have been representing clients charged with marijuana crimes in Columbus and central Ohio since 1997. For more information about me, see my profile, and for more details about my practice, see the firm overview. You can also see what clients say and review my past case results. I limit the number of cases I accept so I can provide outstanding service to my clients. I charge flat fees for representation in marijuana cases, so you will know the total fee before you hire me, and my office accepts payment by credit card. If you would like to discuss how I can help with your marijuana case, EMAIL ME or call me at 614-717-1177 to arrange a free consultation.